Prime Minister Scott Morrison has sent out a message to all Australians ahead of the Easter long weekend, warning us what to expect.

Politics

PM’s message: ‘Easter will be different’

by Ally Foster

9th Apr 2020 6:29 PM

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has warned Australians that Easter will be very different this year, as strict rules social-distancing and mass gathering rules remain in place over the long weekend.

In a video address, Mr Morrison said people won't be able to celebrate Easter like they normally would.

"It's still true that we'll be able to gather together in our immediate family, but there won't be the opportunity for that extended family gathering, special times I know, as well as going off to church and our religious services where we can remember the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ," he said.

"The coronavirus means this Easter will be different and we will be staying at home.

"And it's important because we cannot undo the tremendous progress we have made together in recent times."

Mr Morrison urged Australians to stay home this Easter long weekend.

The PM then addressed the Christian community, saying that not being able to gather during this time doesn't "diminish the hope that we have through this important Easter period".

"This year, we will live out our faith by doing the right thing," he said.

Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt speaks to the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra. Picture: Lukas Coch/AAP

"As we go into Easter with welcome news for Australia, the virus does not take a holiday - therefore none of us can relax in what we do," Mr Hunt said today.

"This in many ways is the most important weekend we may face in the whole course of the virus.

"If we can lock in the gains that we've made as a nation through the courage and sacrifice of those on the health, medical and policing front lines, but also through the immense goodwill and discipline of Australians, then we can help really protect Australian lives going forward and give ourselves the pathway through."

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she knows this weekend "will be difficult" but pleaded with people to "respect the rules".

"Especially to those of you who would normally attend a church service, I know this would be so difficult for many of you," she said.

"It may be the first Easter where you have not attended a church service or religious gathering, but we're all in this together and I appreciate what everyone is going through."

Ms Berejiklian says it will be a few weeks before there's enough data to lead us out of lockdown. "It's so important for us to stay vigilant," she said.